Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has made his prediction known on this Saturday’s main event.
Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje are set to rematch this weekend in Salt Lake City. Both fighters have history, having clashed over half a decade ago. Poirier secured the TKO victory late into the fight, with the fight being a clear ‘fight of the night’ winner. The stakes are raised this time, with the ‘BMF‘ belt being on the line. Both fighters come into this bout on a win streak, with the fight surely having title implications within the near future.
On his YouTube channel, Alexander Volkanovski offered his analysis of the main event.
Alexander Volkanovski Prediction
“It’s going to be a fun one. Dustin Poirier is the favorite, not a massive favourite but he is the favourite by a bit. Gaethje being the underdog. Obviously, they already fought, and I feel like the fight does go pretty similar,” Volkanovski began.
Reflecting on Poirier’s fighting style, Volkanovski commented, “If I had to lean toward someone, it would have to be Dustin Poirier. I think he’s a bit more tidier. Early on, this is the thing with Dustin, Dustin will put a bit of that pressure. He will put himself in danger a little bit.”
Volkanovski continued, “I think as the fight goes, that benefits Dustin 100 percent. I think he does get better as the fight goes. I think he gets a bit more calculated. He gets better reads and he’s better with his combos as the fight goes later.”
Volkanovski Added
When asked about potential paths to victory for Poirier, Volkanovski elaborated, “I’m going to have to go towards Dustin to win this one. I think he has more ways of winning. I can see him actually getting a submission. Maybe hurting him, a little bit of a scramble, maybe getting a finish. I know Gaethje’s got that wrestling, but I mean as he’s hurt I feel like that could happen.”
However, the champion also acknowledged that Gaethje is a formidable opponent who can make adjustments and put on an impressive show. “This one’s a tough fight, a tough one to pick. Obviously, Gaethje can make the adjustments and fight the right fight because he looked great in his last fight. He’s not bad in five-round fights either, but I feel like as the fight goes on, Dustin is going to have his way more. He’s shown that time and time again,” Volkanovski explained.
Quotes via Yahoo Sports
With the fight being as anticipated as it is, MMA fans can expect a big show in Salt Lake City this weekend.
Do you agree with Volkanovski’s prediction?
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images and Embed from Getty Images
